King Seiko 5245-6000 Hi-Beat Chronometer Review
Vintage

King Seiko 5245-6000 Hi-Beat Chronometer Review

By KMII · Jun 14, 2016 · 26 replies
KMII
WPS member · Seiko forum
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KMII introduces a surprising addition to their collection: a vintage King Seiko 5245-6000, marking their first vintage Seiko acquisition. This post is particularly valuable for enthusiasts interested in Seiko's historical 'Special' rated chronometers and the unique design features of the King Seiko line, such as the monoblock case and external adjustment screw. KMII's detailed observations highlight the enduring appeal and technical ingenuity of these vintage pieces.

While there is definitely a further Grand Seiko in my future, the current purchase did not go in that direction. Instead it was a very surprising piece, and my first vintage Seiko at that. smile

As is often the case, I was looking for new watches on a well known site and stumbled upon a selection of vintage Seikos, available in Europe. Amongst them was a Grand Seiko 6145-8000, which I definitely want to call mine some day but I was not completely satisfied with the condition. On the other hand, there was a true surprise that I knew nothing about, and finally that one was to become my first vintage Seiko.



So without further ado, here it is - a King Seiko 5245-6000! So we have the royal bit sorted wink The first special feature is the case - the 6000 case is a monoblock design (I suppose to aid the water resistance) and the movement has to be taken out for servicing dial side. Being from the early 1970s I guess one could call it a product of the Grammar of Design to an extent and it is certainly understated and relatively timeless. It does not look and feel like a 45 year old watch smile At the same time I would be quite reluctant to test its current level of water resistance, before it gets a check from Seiko itself. 



The dial side shows some further features. Hi-Beat in this case does not quite go all the way to 36.000 vph but only to 28.800 - it is supposedly a detuned version of the former movements also offered by Seiko in the period. At the same time it is one of the last officially certified chronometers from Seiko. The statement of the fact, together with the Automatic text makes the dial top quite text heavy but not in a way that is disturbing or bothering me. 

Lower down, one gets to see the KS logo, the Special rating (similar to my GS SBGH035) and the Hi-Beat text. Here we have the Special element - and I am very chuffed to have found the second Special for my Seiko collection. smile Not quite at the level of the legendary VFAs but still special of sorts (pun intended) wink

The dial has a linnen texture, which is quite pleasing and the indices and hands are a good indicator of GS models to come decades later - excellent!



One can see it has not led a life of a safe queen, still, the state is more than good for something 45 years old and not NOS. The crown is subdued to small, with a nice KS logo. It works well enough to set the watch, as for winding, you need to practice your lasso throwing moves, as there is no manual winding possible. It does - as essential for a chronometer - have hacking seconds, though.



And as a final feature, a little screw between the lower lugs. I have not tried it out yet but this allows the adjustment of the movement without removing it completely from the case - a very cool feature smile

So, I have to say I am happy as can be with the latest addition. As soon as it gets more wrist time - which should not be hard - I will write an experience report but could not resist sharing it already (no Nicolas like crocodile tendencies here) biggrin

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGH035

The Grand Seiko SBGH035 is a limited edition model that features a distinctive dial and a high-beat movement. This reference is part of Grand Seiko's mechanical collection, known for its precision and robust construction. It represents a specific aesthetic within the brand's offerings, appealing to collectors who appreciate subtle design variations and technical performance. The watch maintains the core principles of Grand Seiko's design language while offering a unique visual identity through its dial. It is a notable example of the brand's approach to limited production runs.

The SBGH035 is housed in a stainless steel case, characteristic of many Grand Seiko models, and features a sapphire crystal. It is powered by a high-beat mechanical movement, which operates at a higher frequency than standard movements, contributing to its accuracy. The case dimensions are consistent with other watches in its series, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. The movement offers a substantial power reserve, ensuring reliable operation over an extended period. The construction emphasizes durability and precision engineering.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Grand Seiko with a unique dial and the technical advantages of a high-beat caliber. Its limited edition status adds to its desirability among enthusiasts. The SBGH035 fits into the broader Grand Seiko lineup as a special variant that showcases both the brand's manufacturing capabilities and its attention to detail in design. It is a piece that highlights the brand's commitment to mechanical watchmaking.

Specifications

Caliber
9S85
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40mm
Dial
White
Water Resist.
100m
Crystal
Sapphire

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The Discussion
AN
Ancienne Le Brassus
Jun 14, 2016

They're really underappreciated but so beautiful! Congrats and Cant wait to see more of this piece here! S

KM
KMII
Jun 14, 2016

Give me a couple of weeks to get some pictures and experience with it...

KM
KMII
Jun 14, 2016

There has only been one modern King Seiko - can understand why there is little space for both KS and GS but still, there have been some interesting pieces in the past, so there could be some potential...

IA
iamcalledryan
Jun 14, 2016

I was only just a day or two ago saying that it's a shame nobody developed a method to adjust the quartz rate without popping the caseback - trust Seiko!

KM
KMII
Jun 14, 2016

But still a very cool adjustment option! Hope others follow at some point

DR
Dr No
Jun 14, 2016

. . . that further additions to my Seiko collection were unlikely? Well, several years back, I also wrote about the desirability of a watch that could be adjusted by its user. I'd no idea that Seiko actually produced one. When you think about it, this is really the ultimate enthusiasts watch. Amazed, Art

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